BB Creams: Can one cream really do it all?

image courtesy of Skin79

'BB Cream' is the beauty buzzword du jour (as is HD brows, but more on that later!).

Several of the major beauty brands in this country, including Estee Lauder, Dior and Clinique have all launched their own versions of BB cremes.


But what the hell is a BB cream? And are you missing out by not using one?

4 things you need to know:


1) 'BB' stands for different things, depending on the brand. E.g. 'Blemish Balm', 'Beauty Balm', 'Beauty Benefit', 'Bonking Badgers' (OK, so I made the last one up).

2) The multifunctional cream was originally developed in late 1960s Germany as a treatment balm and was "used by dermatologists to help laser surgery patients protect, soothe and refine highly sensitive skin while providing light coverage for post-laser scars..." (source: wikipedia).


3) BB cremes are old news in Asia. The first cosmetic BB creams were developed in Korea and popularised by a Korean actress who promoted their ability to "even out skin tone" and 'lighten blemish marks". As a result, the popularity of cosmetic BB creams quickly spread to China and Japan and is  now making waves in Western countries.


4) Some BB creams claim to act as a primer, foundation, moisturiser, sun block, pore minimizer and skin refiner all in one! No wonder the world's gone bonkers for BB creams!

BB Creams currently available in the UK:

1. MAC Pre + Prime Beauty Balm (£21, SPF 35. Claims to 're-texturise' the skin. Currently only available in one shade which is best suited for pale skins).

2. Estée Lauder Daywear BB (£32, available in 2 shades. Antioxidant-rich & SPF 35. Claims 'Moisture, protection and flawless perfection.' Er, yes please!)

3. Clinique New Age Defense BB cream (£25, SPF 30, available in 2 shades. Clinique claims: 'Meet your skin's everything').


There are also a number of high street brands who have jumped onto the BB cream band wagon:
Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream (SPF 35) - £17 (approx)
Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector (SPF 15) - £9.99 from Boots
No 7 Beautiful Skin BB Cream (SPF 15) - £12.95 from Boots


Have you tried a BB cream? What did you think?


ps: Here's that vid on HD brows!!!